Riparian Forest Buffers

Conservation buffers are strips of vegetation placed in the landscape to influence ecological processes and provide a variety of goods and services to us. They are called by many names, including wildlife corridors, greenways, windbreaks, and filter strips to name just a few. More about buffers…

Riparian forest buffers for trout habitat improvement

Minnesota is home to over 450 miles of Department of Natural Resource designated trout streams. As a cold water species, trout are sensitive to warm stream temperatures. Establishing trees in riparian buffers is widely recognized as a significant tool for stabilizing stream temperatures and improving trout habitat.

Riparian forest buffers (RFBs) provide other benefits, as well. They filter sediment, nutrients and pesticides, thus preventing movement of these nonpoint pollution sources downstream. Trees in the buffer zone provide woody debris for the stream, an important component of trout habitat. The woody roots also help stabilize stream banks and help with flood control.

Vermillion River demonstration

University of Minnesota Extension and the Department of Natural Resources established a forest buffer demonstration along the Vermillion River, a designated trout stream in Dakota County.

Several different tree and shrub species were planted in a random design to mimic a natural forest. As the buffer matures, changes in stream temperature and trout population will be monitored. Additional funding for this project was provided by the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization.